Big beaches are great: they have plenty of space to spread out in, lots of swimming spots to choose from, not to mention arcades, piers and fish and chip shops. Yet there’s something special about stumbling across a secluded cove.
A tiny beach is a proper slice of paradise and the smaller the patch of sand, the more precious it feels. North Wales has more than its fair share of stunning beaches, but if you’re prepared to venture away from the tourist hotspots, you’ll certainly be rewarded.
Tucked in between two headlands on the Western side of the Lyn Peninsula is Porth Iago. It’s a small but perfectly-formed beach where rugged green land slopes down to golden sand.
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Thanks to the headlands the beach is very sheltered, which makes it perfect for swimming and protects you from any cool breezes. With crystal clear waters you’d be hard-pushed not to go and have a dip.
It’s a popular spot for fishing too, especially by the rocks on the north side. You can catch bass, pollack, whiting and more.
Porth Iago was named by Lonely Planet as the best beach in Wales for 'wild' camping. Overlooking the beach is Ty Mawr farm, which lets out its fields for camping, so you can wake up to the stunning views of Porth Iago - or watch the sunset before falling asleep under the stars.
The farm also has a car park, reached by a private track through the farm, which you can pay to use if you’re visiting for the day. But be aware that the beach has no facilities so come fully-prepared - and the path down to the sand is very steep.
Alternatively you can access the beach from the Wales Coast Path, so it’s a great stop off if you’re exploring the coastline of North Wales. Dogs are allowed on the beach, but are asked to be kept inside the car when passing through the farm.
Porth Iago is around three hours’ drive from Manchester. It’s around 30 minutes’ drive from the village of Abersoch.
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